The Intrepid Beauty of Africa & the Indian Ocean

Malta’s 16th century walled capital of Valletta, with its Grand Harbour, is a treasure-chest bristling with Baroque architecture. This most scenic of ancient ports echoes the epic, heroic history of the tiny island it nestles on. Centuries of invasion and siege have brought the influence of Romans, Phoenicians, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Crusaders and the British – all leaving an enduring mark on Valletta’s cultural heritage. Home to The Knights of Malta, an order created in the Middle Ages, the town is known for museums, palaces and grand churches.

Baroque landmarks include the ornate St. John’s Co-Cathedral; its opulent interior is crowned by Caravaggio’s masterpiece "The Beheading of Saint John". Other noteworthy attractions include the National Museum of Archaeology, the 16th century Casa Rocca Piccola Palace and the military artefacts in the National War Museum.

The cityscape is probably one of the most stunning in the Mediterranean – the city’s sun-drenched stone walls have an almost permanent warm, honey hue, while colourful, decorative balconies overlook the worn and tethered streets below. Fine restaurants and shops leap out from side streets or are tucked away in charming courtyards.

Valletta is also well-situated to discover the silent city of Mdina, a fortified city in the Northern Region of Malta and home to the Roman burial complex of St. Paul’s Catacombs.

The magnificent Egyptian city of Alexandria is home to the site of the great Pharos Lighthouse – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Alexandria’s Roman amphitheatre, ancient storied library and catacombs recall distant glories of this great Hellenic city, while the 19th century Montazah Palace Gardens and seafront boulevards reflect a more recent era.

Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria is a sparkling gem on the Mediterranean coastline. The birthplace of Cleopatra VII, the city is the cultural hub of the region, and gateway to the Giza pyramids and the River Nile. A short venture along the coast will uncover the fortress Citadel of Qaitbay teetering on the coast.

This sultry, bustling city has both ancient and modern history intertwined in every street. French-style parks and the occasional French street sign have survived as part of Napoleon’s legacy, and, as one of Alexandria's many conquerors, Greek restaurants and cafés still dominate the cultural scene.

Situated at the northern entrance to the Suez Canal, and approximately 100 miles north east from Cairo, Port Said serves as a maritime gateway through Egypt and as a stopping point for many who land here before continuing on to the country’s captivating capital city.

With Cairo such a relatively short distance away, the clamour of this mega-city – the largest in the Arab world – is bound to be strong when you call at Port Said. And if you do choose to head south west to the capital on a tour, you won’t be disappointed by what awaits you. Streets and bazaars teeming with locals and alive with the buzz of everyday life contrast the reflective, peaceful nature of attractions such as the Al Azhar Mosque, Museum of Islamic Art and the world-famous Egyptian Museum, with its countless treasures such as the gold death-mask of the boy-king Tutankhamun.

On the western edge of Cairo is arguably the most magnificent and magnetic attraction of them all, the towering Pyramids of Giza – the last remaining wonder of the ancient world – and their surrounding tombs, temple ruins and smaller, yet no-less-fascinating satellite pyramids.

The Canal crosses the Isthmus of Suez dividing the Mediterranean from the Red Sea, and is one of the world’s most impressive man made waterways, 101 miles in length. Opened in 1869 it remains one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.

Sharm el-Sheikh is an Egyptian resort town between the desert of the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea. Many visit to indulge in the world-class snorkelling, water-skiing or swimming offered by its clear waters and coral reefs. Of course, people also come to simply relax on its fabulous, sheltered, sandy beaches.

Ras Muhammad National Park is a major diving destination, with marine life around the Shark and Yolanda reefs and the Thistlegorm Wreck. The coral reefs are home to a host of gorgeous rainbow-hued fish and sea-gardens. Naama Bay is a natural bay and the main hub for visitors. Its palm tree-lined promenade is famous for its cafés, restaurants, hotels, and bazaars.  

Appearing like a mirage across the endless sand, Sharm el-Sheikh is a paradise of relaxation. The town’s history is marked by St. Catherine’s, a 6th century Byzantine Greek Orthodox Monastery. It is the oldest continuously inhabited monastery in the world, set in the shadow of Mt. Sinai, the site of the Burning Bush, where, according to tradition, Moses received the Ten Commandments.

The Egyptian town of Safaga on the Red Sea offers crystal-clear waters and black-sand beaches that are popular with divers, windsurfers and sun worshippers. For a glimpse into Egypt’s ancient past, the majestic temples of Luxor and Karnak, and the historic Valley of the Kings, are in easy reach.

Safaga’s clear serene waters hypnotise with its multitude of tuna, sharks and manta rays often seen around the towering reefs of Abu Qifan. The sea here is very saline, rich in minerals and is said to have curative properties.

Safaga is the popular gateway for exploration of the Eastern Desert and the granite quarries of Mons Claudianus. The network of tombs at the captivating Valley of the Kings, and all the mystique of the Pharaohs, await on tours from this sultry port.

A huge city sprawled along the country's Red Sea coast, Jeddah is Saudi Arabia's major urban centre and one of the biggest and most important commercial hubs in the Arab world. As the principal gateway to Mecca and Medina, Islam's holiest cities, it is also at the very heart of religion and culture in the region too. 

With its year-round warmth and blend of cuisine, culture, arts, architecture and diverse mix of hyper-modern and centuries-old sites and attractions, Jeddah is simply captivating. See the contrasts between the towering office blocks and sky scrapers of the thriving commercial districts and antique-balcony-laden buildings that line the stone streets and walkways of the UNESCO-listed old city of al-Balad, where the ancient souk is a must see. Don't miss the magnificent King Fahad Fountain - the tallest of its kind in the world.

As you explore, you uncover sights, secrets and flavours that have long attracted and inspired artists and writers from around the world. Head for the coast for glorious sea views, and for opportunities to go in search of a wonderful underwater world of corals and marine flora and fauna during magical diving and snorkelling experiences.

Capital of Oman’s southern region, Salalah, known as the ‘perfume city of Arabia’, is famous for its trade in frankincense, banana plantations, Arabian Sea beaches and waters teeming with sea life. An annual monsoon, The Khareef, transforms the desert terrain into a lush, green landscape and the seasonal waterfalls it creates is a magical sight.

The city’s must-see sights include the eye-catching Sultan Qaboos Palace and the Al-Husn Souk, which is a large outdoor market with dozens of shops and stalls selling gold and silver products, incense, perfumes and frankincense resin. The Frankincense Land Museum, part of the Al Balid Archaeological Site, recounts the city’s maritime history and its role in the spice trade.

There is another market – the Haffa Souk, in the old city. This is the place to buy local hand-made wood and leather products as well as more frankincense resin.

Once a cluster of seven islands covered with coconut palms, Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is a sprawling, vibrant city on India’s west coast. It is a busy, densely-populated city, home to India’s most prolific film industry, Bollywood, and the largest tropical forest in an urban zone.

Mumbai can prove to be a surprising introduction to India. On its harbour waterfront stands the iconic Gateway of India stone arch; through it is India’s centre for finance and fashion, and a fervent religious crossroads. As such the city’s furious energy – and often heavy air pollution – can make it a totally different experience for visitors.

But once in Mumbai’s heart, some of the most imposing colonial-era architecture on earth is on view, as are its secret bazaars, hidden temples, and India’s top restaurants and intense nightlife.

The cultural mix is extraordinary: religious sites like the Jain Temple and the closely guarded Parsi Towers of Silence all exist happily next to the Victoria Railway Terminus, the Royal Bombay Yacht Club and the Ghandi Memorial Museum. The unique and popular bazaars offer souvenir trinkets, traditional shawls and shoes all ready to be bartered over.

Venturing beyond Mumbai, the elusive and lesser known Elephanta Caves are captivating. Set in attractive surroundings of lush green vegetation, vines and towering trees, Elephanta Island offers a stark contrast from the bustling inner city of Mumbai. The eerie Buddhist and Hindu caves, and their honeycomb of halls, shrines and pillars, are a must-see.

Mormugão is the main port of the tiny State of Goa, renowned for superb beaches and a colonial history that combines the best of Indian and Portuguese culture.

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, Goa showcases a mix of scenic beauty and architectural delights, from golden beaches and spice plantations to striking temples and bustling markets.

The Arch of the Viceroys was built in 1597 to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s arrival in India, while the nearby Church of St. Cajetan is modelled on St. Peter’s in Rome. Opposite the magnificent Se Cathedral at Old Goa – one of the largest churches in Asia, is the Basilica of Bom. Here the remains of Francis Xavier, a founder of the Jesuit order and patron saint of Goa, lie in a silver casket next to the altar.

Yoga is king in Goa, and the crop of spiritual activities available to visitors grows each year. T’ai chi sessions, Reiki healing courses, meditation, and most forms of spiritual exploration are all practised freely. The scents, spices and flavours of Goa’s cuisine is the area’s other main attraction, and the Indo-Portuguese influence will surprise and tantalise even seasoned travellers.

Known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, serene Kochi on India’s south-western coast has been drawing traders, explorers and travellers to its shores for over 600 years.

Formerly the port of Cochin, Kochi grew to prominence as an outlet for the spice trade in the 14th century, and is most famous for the iconic-cantilevered Chinese fishing nets that billow out across its harbour. This ancient trading centre is a melting pot of cultures and religions, evident in the town’s buildings, which range from the oldest synagogue in the British Commonwealth to the austere Mattancherry Palace, built by the Dutch but influenced by the Portuguese.

Beautiful, unspoiled Uligamu, is off the beaten track to say the least, and is a stunning atoll island at the very top of the Maldives. The Maldives gives its visitors a taste of paradise that lives long in the memory, and Uligamu is no exception.

Uligamu (or Uligan) inhabitants are both courteous and kind people, and the island’s spectacular beaches and quiet, tranquil waters offer an underwater feast of coral reefs and tropical fish.

Part of the Haa Alif Atoll, Uligamu is an outpost in the northwest Indian Ocean and an ideal location to relax. It is the final stop for many en route to and from Thailand before entering the Gulf of Aden or sailing directly up the Red Sea.

A district of Addu City, Hithadhoo is situated on an island of the same name, and is a gateway to the islands, islets, cities and scenery of the Maldives' spectacular Addu Atoll. 

As Addu City's main administrative centre, Hithadhoo is as energetic as the Maldives gets; the heart of the town is home to a number of the country's most important administrative districts and buildings, serving the nation and providing work to the local population - which is Maldives' second largest, after the capital Malé. 

But beyond the hustle and bustle, quintessential beauty is within easy reach. A short journey south from Hithadhoo sees you soon encounter scenes of lush vegetation, while more rugged scrublands away to the north. And of course, as is usually the case in the Maldives, you're never far from the most breathtaking of beaches.

Surrounded by turquoise swells of the quietly rippling Indian Ocean, and sprinkled with dense forests and tall hills offering breath-taking views, Victoria, on the Seychelles island of Mahé, is the epitome of paradise.

The port is one of the smallest capitals in the world and offers visitors a number of highlights to discover. The colourful Sir Selwyn Clarke Market sells spices, fruit, art and souvenirs. Near the Cathedral of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception is the imposing La Domus, built in 1934 to house Catholic missionaries, while the quaint old courthouse has a clock tower that is a replica of Big Ben.

The island’s pristine, golden sands are best seen from the top of Morne Blanc, which delivers breath-taking panoramic views across the lush landscape. Seychelles National Botanical Gardens showcases endemic palms and orchids, as well as giant tortoises and fruit bats, and is worth a visit.  

Total relaxation is on offer on the white sandy beaches of Praslin Island in the Seychelles. Originally the perfect hideaway for pirates, it is now the epitome of a tropical paradise, with crystal blue seas and tropical forests.

Home to beautiful beaches (which frequently make the top ten lists of best beaches) and rare bird species, Praslin Island is everything you would expect of a tropical experience. The UNESCO-protected palm forest of Vallée de Mai located in Praslin National Park to the south of the island, and the ancient coral reefs just off-shore that are popular with divers, combine to make this a truly special place.

La Digue is the third largest inhabited island of the Seychelles, lying east of Praslin and west of Felicite Island. Island residents mostly live in the west coast villages of La Passe and La Réunion.

The island's main industry is tourism and it is known for its beaches, especially Anse Source d'Argent and Grand Anse. Veuve Nature Reserve covers the island's interior, and is home to the rare Black Paradise Flycatcher, of which there are only about 100 in existence. La Digue's tallest peak, Belle Vue (Eagle's Nest Mountain), is also in the central part of the island, with a summit more than 300 metres (1000 feet) above sea level, and makes for an impressive sight to discover during your island exploration.

La Digue is also visited for its wide variety of underwater marine life, such as various fish species, sharks and rays. Boat trips and diving experiences are a memorable way to encounter the island's fauna. Furthemore, the Veuve reserve offers visitors hiking trips with a guide who can show them the beauty of La Digue.

Mombasa is a major sea gateway for Eastern Africa and is Kenya's oldest and second largest metropolis. A spectacular coral reef, uninterrupted for 480 km, runs along the palm fringed coastline, with waters teeming with marine life, while in the skies above a huge diversity of birdlife occupies the mangrove forests or overhanging cliffs.

The beaches of Kenya are renowned as some of the world's best, offering plenty of opportunities for water sports or simply sunbathing. Mombasa has undoubtedly some of the country's finest sandy stretches, which are made even more appealing by the nearby bars and restaurants, which are alive with locals and visitors alike.

The “Old Town” is the part of Mombasa that is reminiscent of the days when the Arabs exerted a heavy influence on the town and its culture, and especially in the architecture and language. It is well known for its ancient buildings, extravagant art designs and curio shops that sell antique and popular Kenyan souvenirs. Old Town is best seen when explored by foot with an experienced guide, as the streets are too narrow to accommodate a large number of vehicles. The town’s inhabitants are mostly of Arab origin who’s forefathers once roamed the same streets of the town. Fort Jesus is located just a few steps away from where the town "starts", thus a complete tour of the fort and the “Old Town” can be done in a single day.

Beautiful Zanzibar is a Tanzanian archipelago in the Indian Ocean off the coast of East Africa. It has a relaxed pace and diverse flora and fauna, but its highlight has to be the powder-soft white sand beaches and alluring crystal clear waters offering visitors a true slice of paradise.

The island’s main town is Stone Town, a historic trade centre with Swahili and Islamic influences. Its winding lanes are lined with balconies, minarets, huge carved doorways and 19th century landmarks such as the House of Wonders, a former sultan’s palace. A sense of Zanzibar’s harrowing past can discovered by visiting the old Slave Market or alternatively, its more cultural side can be tasted in its colourful cuisine at the Forodhani Gardens.

The island is one of the world's great cultural crossroads, where Africa meets Arabia. On the coast, fishing boats set sail, and in the countryside farmers tend fields of rice or plantations of clove.

Zanzibar’s idyllic beaches are dotted with quaint hotels, and its shallow turquoise waters are perfect to paddle before the ocean becomes a playground for kayaking, diving and snorkelling for tropical marine life. Kitesurfing on the gorgeous sands is another popular pastime.

Dar es Salaam has long been regarded by many visitors as just a stopping point en route to some of Zanzibar's most exotic places, from its game parks and reserves to the beautiful Pemba and Mafia islands.

But those who use this major, rapidly-growing city as merely a stepping stone to places beyond it are missing out on a destination that offers a wonderful blend of historical and modern-day sites, cultural highlights and its own gorgeous coastline that rivals that of any of the islands within reach. 

The thriving metropolis of Dar es Salaam has grown from the quiet fishing village it once was, to a city packed with bustling districts where towering modern buildings overlook older African, Arab, Indian and German architectural delights. Fishing still plays an important role in daily life here, and visiting the fish market at Kivukoni Front is a must to get a feel for the city at its most local and authentic. To escape the noise, unspoilt beaches - popular with sun-worshippers and watersport enthusiasts - provide the perfect place to relax. 

Mamoudzou is the capital of Mayotte, a beautiful French overseas department in the Comoros Islands archipelago. Located on Grand-Terre, the main island of Mayotte, the city is a gateway to the region’s spectacular sights and cultural delights.

Boats dot Mamoudzou’s charming harbour, and the nearby Marché Couvert market sells fresh, local produce and handicrafts. Landmarks include the white minaret of Mtsapéré Mosque, and Notre-Dame de Fatima church, while the nearby beaches of Trévani and Plage du Phare are perfect spots to relax.

Situated in the Mozambique Channel of the western Indian Ocean, some 190 miles northwest of Madagascar, Mayotte is comprised of two beautiful islands: Grand-Terre and Petit-Terre. A natural paradise, the island is home to the largest lagoon in the Indian Ocean, boasting over 250 different species of hard coral, schools of tropical fish, while turtles, dolphins and whales – all ripe for an unforgettable snorkelling or scuba diving adventure.

The wondrous landscape of Mayotte includes an amazing network of lush mangroves and humid rainforests. Grand-Terre features stunning volcanic landscapes, marked by deep ravines and soaring ancient peaks, and many hikers scale the spectacular heights of Mount Benara, Mount Mtsapere and Mount Combani.

Formerly, and more commonly, known as Hell-Ville, Andoany is the capital of the beautiful Madagascan island of Nosy Be. Andoany is anything but hellish; the name actually derived from Admiral de Hell's former governorship. Warm and welcoming, the city boasts fine colonial architecture, busy markets and a pretty harbour. It’s also a gateway to the island’s stunning rainforests, fascinating wildlife and sun-kissed beaches.

Bordered by mile-upon-mile of glorious golden sands, Andoany is one of the most popular beach resorts in the Indian Ocean. In the town, fragrant frangipani and bougainvillea appear to prop up the ruins of its old colonial buildings, and the upbeat pavement cafes bustle with tourists. The Société de Rhum Arrangé offers local rum in 20 flavours, and Le Jardin des Sens is a beautiful old house selling locally-produced honey, spices, soaps and skin creams.

A stroll around the historic city also reveals the Russian Monument, erected in the memory of Russian soldiers that drowned off the coast of Nosy Be in 1904, and the Oceanographic Museum, where the island’s native sea creatures can be viewed up close.

Smothered with dense tropical rainforest, Nosy Be is ideal for watching diverse wildlife in its natural environment. The sprawling Lokobe National Park is home to an abundance of endemic fauna and flora, and is an unmissable gem. The unmistakable calls of Grey-backed and Mouse Lemurs echo through the tree canopies, chameleons merge seamlessly into the unspoilt environment, and boa constrictors snake along the leafy forest floor.

Antsiranana, aka Diego Suarez, is a port city in northern Madagascar in Antsiranana Bay, a vast natural harbour made up of several smaller bays.

Smothered with French colonial charm, Diego’s streets are lined with traditional architecture and are home to large markets selling an abundance of fine local produce and hand-made crafts. The pace is slow and nearly everything shuts between 12pm and 3pm while locals indulge in long siestas.

Away from the bustle of the markets, the lighthouse, cathedral and the ruins of the Hôtel de la Marine are worth exploring. The delightful local delicacies in Diego’s many fine restaurants can also be enjoyed. Alternatively, a trip to the island’s breath-taking north coast offers stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain or the eponymous Island, which is considered sacred by locals. South of the city, the untouched landscapes of two large National Parks are waiting to be discovered.

While the waterfalls, crater lakes and breadth of fauna and flora at Amber Mountain National Park are wonderful, a sighting of the Madagascar Fish Eagle – one of the world’s rarest birds of prey – is the much sought after prize. At Ankarana Special Reserve, birds, lemurs and the 150-million-year-old Jurassic limestone formations are the key highlights.

A republic of France, Port Réunion is like is like a tropical version of the French Riviera, with gourmet restaurants – many run by descendants of the original pioneers, sandy beaches and chic boutiques.

The island’s lush, sweeping landscapes and mountainous interior are just waiting to be explored, as are the southern villages which appear to be frozen in time. Their charming creole houses remain as they were fifty years ago. More than 8,000 imported labourers built the docks here and many of these Portois stayed on in these shacks.

Following investment by the French Government, the island now has a modernised port, new housing, green spaces, and the creation of a superb boulevard, Ocean Avenue, linking the Old Port, soon to be a marina, with the city.

Port Louis, capital of Mauritius and its busiest city, delivers a huge slice of everyday Mauritian life. Sat in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, the port is known for its French colonial architecture and the 19th century Champ de Mars horse-racing track.  

To see a colourful snapshot of this paradise, a visit to the lively Central Market, which contrasts with the sparkling new Caudan Waterfront and shopping precinct, is recommended for local produce and handicrafts.

The Blue Penny Museum offers a taste of the island’s colonial and maritime history and culture. Port Louis’ famous Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens, with its giant Victoria Water Lilies, demands discovery, as does the nearby 3,000-acre Domaine des Pailles Nature Park.

Tea is a big deal in Mauritius, with 58 varieties produced on the island. Many take the opportunity to visit the manufacturers’ factories and view the picturesque colonial houses en route. Alternatively, many simply choose to relax beside a fabulous Indian Ocean Beach.  

Similar to many of Madagascar’s east coast ports, Toamasina's roots are embedded in the history of its pirate-influenced past. The French, who were already a presence in Ile Ste-Marie, established a trading port here in the late 18th century, only to be challenged by the British governor of newly acquired Mauritius.

Theories on the origin of the name Toamasina vary; one is that King Radama I tasted the sea water and remarked "Toa masina" - it is salty. The lush coastal area is often referred to as the Coast of Greenery due to the extensive rainy season. Toamasina is also the name of the province, which includes the port town, the rice-producing plain of Maroantsetra, the Nosy Mangabe Nature Reserve, the rain forests around Andasibe, the giant Pangalanes Channel and the former pirate havens of the Bay of Antongil and Ile Ste-Marie.

Today the town of about 70,000 is home once-fine colonial houses which lend Toamasina a unique elegance. It is a busy place with sailors and tourists, thanks to its variety of bars, restaurants and hotels. While in town, visit the colorful market, where vendors display a wide array of produce, seafood and spices such as vanilla, cloves and black pepper, and locally made quality straw goods. A tour by pousse-pousse (rickshaw), the common local transportation, is a fun way to explore the town and get a glimpse into the daily life and activities of its people.

Fort Dauphin is a city on the southeast coast of Madagascar. It is the country’s oldest town and a port of local importance. Built on a small peninsula, the town is bordered on three sides by beaches with a backdrop of high green mountains. Port D'Ehoala, situated on the south coast approximately 10 Kilometres away, is your gateway to the city, as well as Madagascan wonders that await amongst the island's gorgeous interiors.

The town offers beautiful beaches and interesting trips into the surrounding area. Plenty of local color can be observed at Fort Dauphin's lively market and there are a few good viewpoints around town offering fine panoramas of the bay and the mountains.

A drive into the hinterland offers a look at some of Madagascar's unusual species of flora, such as the rosy periwinkle, the carnivorous pitcher plant and the triangular rubber palm. The Spiny Forest, beginning several miles west of Fort Dauphin, is another unique and characteristic feature of this region. The cactus-like didierea plant and the unique baobab tree grow here. In addition, some 57 miles from Fort Dauphin is the Berenty Reserve which is the area's major attraction.

Maputo, capital of Mozambique, is an Indian Ocean port with a rich Portuguese heritage and colonial architecture to match. Its smart waterside setting and wide avenues lined with jacaranda and flame trees, makes Maputo one of Africa's most attractive capitals.

Many turn-of-the-century buildings are in the downtown Baixa neighbourhood. The beautiful architecture mixes up charming villas with an impressive modern skyline. Landmarks include the imposing bronze-domed CFM Railway Station, completed in 1916, which is well worth visiting, as is the expansive and colourful Municipal Market. This is a great spot to sample a taste of local life, and maybe a cashew nut or two, which are all over Maputo in every imaginable form.

This beachfront city has an upbeat African vibe, with a wide selection of cool hotels and restaurants, well-stocked supermarkets, shady cafes and a lively cultural scene and nightlife.

Situated on a huge lagoon off the Mhlatuze River, Richards Bay is a town in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, and has the deepest natural harbour in the Southern hemisphere.

The modern, thriving port town is surrounded by vast expanses of untouched indigenous scenery, natural lakes and marshes. Its unspoilt wetlands are teeming with wildlife including hippos, crocodiles and over 300 species of bird, which makes this natural paradise a much-sought-after destination.

Named after a British naval commander who landed troops on the Zululand coast in 1879, Richards Bay was a small fishing village until the port opened in 1976. The town offers excellent recreational activities and visitors enjoy art galleries, fishing, beachcombing, bird watching, swimming, canoeing and some classic drives around the bay.

The largest port city in South Africa, Durban, is busy, vibrant and one of the continent's most popular tourist destinations.​

Durban is blessed with balmy weather all year round and has an incredible stretch of beach, the Golden Mile, which boasts wonderful views of the idyllic Indian Ocean and many restaurants and bars to enjoy. This paradise offer an amazing contrast of cosmopolitan city life with a close proximity to the Valley of a Thousand Hills, where the Zulu drum still beats.

The regeneration of the waterfront area has helped shake off the city’s sleazy image and has given it a new confidence and ambition. This seafront promenade runs from uShaka Marine World and Aquarium to the futuristic Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Durban is also a shopper's paradise with quality shopping malls, craft markets and street bazaars. The fascinating Afro-Indian culture is very evident in the city, and much of the local cuisine has an Indian influence.

East London - South Africa's only river port - is situated on the mouth of the Buffalo River, and affectionately known as the Buffalo City, so called by the Khoi San because of the large number of these animals roaming the area.

It was eventually settled as a means of providing supplies to the garrisons, who were protecting the white settlers from the warring Xhosa tribe. In the late 1850’s the population of East London was boosted by the introduction of some German settlers, most of whom were bachelors. In recent decades, the city has seen continual growth, in terms of its geography and its population, and boasts a vibrant, modern energy. The unusual double Decker Bridge over the Buffalo River was completed in 1935 and to this day, is the only bridge of its type in South Africa. Modern day attractions include the East London Museum housing the coelacanth, a prehistoric fish thought to be extinct and numerous memorial statues.

Its interesting hinterland is rich in local culture and history. Several well-preserved examples of 19th century architecture enhance the charm of the city. When the sun goes down, there are theatres, cinemas and a selection of restaurants to sample. With the Wild Coast to the north, the Sunshine coast to the south, and a number of incredible safaris and game reserve explorations within easy reach of the city, East London has something for everyone, whether you're a sporting enthusiast, fisherman, historian, nature lover, or simply in need of a rejuvenating break away from it all.

Steeped in history and known for its incredible weather, Gqeberha provides the complete South African experience. On the fringes of Algoa Bay at the western end of the Sunshine Coast, the area is renowned for its diverse marine life, sublime beaches and top water sports.

Founded in 1820, much of the city's history is evident today in the architecture of Fort Frederick and the Campanile Bell Tower – both part of the Donkin Heritage Trail that allows visitors to follow in the footsteps of the original 1820 Settlers on their journey of discovery and settlement.

From its darker past, Gqeberha is now the place to meet people and easily lives up to its nickname, the ‘friendly city’. Most things in the centre are on tap: bars, music, art and photographic spaces – all part of constant clash of cultures. The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum at the entrance to St George’s Park has a small gallery of paintings and sculpture by contemporary South African artists, and is a real treat to view.

Nearby, the Addo Elephant Park offers the chance to encounter the rare Addo Elephant, among a variety of other game, while a safari experience at the Kariega Game Reserve takes visitors in search of the ‘Big Five’. The 54 hectare Settler's Park in the city centre is a nature lover's paradise, boasting the most beautiful flora and fauna.

Mossel Bay is a beautiful harbour town on the Garden Route in South Africa’s Western Cape Province. Originally claimed in 1488 by the Spanish explorer, Bartholomew Dias, it is now a favourite coastal and holiday destination offering plenty of unhurried hospitality.

Named after the plentiful supply of mussels found here, Mossel Bay’s wide Santos Beach and the fabulous bay views from the 19th century Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse, both demand discovery. The Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex includes the Maritime Museum, which is home to a full-size reproduction of Dias’ ship. The Post Office Tree, an 800-year-old milkwood tree in the complex, has been used as a mail collection point since the 1500s.

Other places of interest include the wild flowers of the botanical gardens and the extraordinary Shell Museum. More active visitors have a choice of water-sports to choose from, or they can simply relax on any part of over 24km of white-sand beaches.

Cape Town brings together cultures, cuisines, and magnificent views: a stunning city crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain National Park. A city that is defined by the flat-topped mountain it sits beneath, Cape Town is known for its lively Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and harbour, serene vineyards and impressive landscapes. This picturesque ‘city bowl’ on the shores of Table Bay, is best seen from the top of Table Mountain – accessible via cable car. 

Cape Town is a rich melting pot of people, and a proudly multicultural centre. Given it was World Design Capital in 2014, creative art and design is unsurprisingly never too far way. Exploring the city is a pleasure, and the attractions include the historic Company’s Gardens, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and Green Point Park.  

Away from the urban centre, winelands such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek offer a distraction of a different kind, while at Cape Point National Park boasts breathtaking coastlines and whale watching opportunities. Visitors can also learn of Nelson Mandela’s inspirational life and legacy at Robben Island, or perhaps spend a memorable evening watching the sunset at Signal Hill.

Walvis Bay is a pleasant port town on the coast of Namibia. Sheltered by the Pelican Point sand spit, its tidal lagoon is a magical destination for bird lovers as it is home to an array of birdlife including pelicans, Damara terns and the largest flock of flamingos in Southern Africa.

The town's harbour is busy with fishing boats and ships, and the slower pace of life here – plus a distinctly laidback vibe – can be witnessed around its recently renovated waterfront, which has a number of fine bars and restaurants.

With its calm, friendly atmosphere, the honey hued sand plains of Walvis Bay is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of neighbouring cities. It’s also the perfect gateway to the famous Cape Cross Seal Reserve, home to some 100,000 Cape fur seals, and the grandeur of the Namib-Naukluft Park. The park’s sand dunes rise to over 1,000 feet and are the world’s highest – Dune 7 is popular with locals as a slope for sandboarding and skiing.

Lying approximately 200 Kilometres off the coast of the West African country of Gabon, the little-known islands of São Tomé e Príncipe are biodiverse wonderlands ripe for exploration. Rarely visited, the islands retain the feel of an undiscovered gem, their mountainous, forested interior wilds framed by the most beautiful sandy beaches. 

Any time spent on São Tomé will be something to cherish and look back on forever. While your cruise ship calls at the city of São Tomé, there are a collection of highlights to take in within the island's capital, from its colourful streets lined with colonial architecture to busy markets affording a taste of local life, you're going to want to take your exploration further and experience the exotic nature of these remarkable lands to the full. 

Venture north or south and you'll encounter the very best that São Tomé island has to offer, with chances to embark on jungle explorations, watch incredible native wildlife in their natural habitat, climb dramatic peaks and more. Or of course you could always head for the coast to make the most of those beaches. 

While Porto-Novo is the capital of Benin, Cotonou is – for all intents and purposes – the beating heart of the country. Situated on the south coast, Cotonou is the largest city in Benin and home to its busiest and most important port, serving as the primary import and export hub, as well as the entry point to Benin for most of its visitors. 

Beyond its economic, administrative and diplomatic importance though, Cotonou is much more than just Benin's de facto capital city. It is also the country's most cosmopolitan place, a city of diverse cultures, rich history and plenty of sights and attractions – including a few particularly unique highlights – to discover during a day of exploration.

For a taste of authentic local life, a trawl of the sprawling Grand Marché de Dantokpa is a must; don't miss the 'Fetish Market' section, for an insight into Cotonou's links to voodoo. There are architectural delights aplenty, such as Cathedral de Notre Dame and the pastel coloured Eglise St Michel church. If you wish to relax a little after a few hours on your feet, you'll find plenty of bars, cafés and restaurants perfect for people watching over local food and drink, though you may be tempted by the city's gorgeous, golden sand beaches for a little relaxation in the sunshine.

As Togo's capital, largest city and home to the country's biggest and busiest port, Lomé is a thriving commercial, industrial and administrative hub. 

Lomé's importance goes well beyond its industry and commerce though. Boasting diverse attractions across the city, from its coast to its centre, 'the pearl of West Africa' is at the heart of Togo's tourism – and for many reasons. 

Situated on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, the city benefits from beautiful waterfront districts, many of which are fronted by gorgeous white sand beaches. Venture into the city, and you soon discover a multitude of sights and highlights, from monuments and museums to palaces, and energetic markets alive with locals throughout the day.

The Ghanaian gem of Takoradi is an expression of Africa at its inspirational best. Here lies a place that once was a tiny fishing village, and entrenched in years of slavery and gold trading, but is now a thriving city settled as an example of African culture and modern life. 

Wander through the centre of Takoradi and you instantly feel engrossed in the way locals live, amongst the busy markets, maze-like collection of stalls and stands crafting the most dellcious traditional food, such as jollof rice and fufu. For a taste of local history too, seek out sites such as Fort Orange and the colonial-era railway station.

Outside the heart of it all, Takoradi's selection of beaches are sure to tempt you in too, while a short tour to Nzulezu to see this wonderful water village is highly recommended.

The thriving Atlantic port of Dakar on Africa’s West coast is the capital of Senegal and a city of extremes. Dakar is a city that sprawls across the Cap-Vert peninsula; a jumble of former French colonial towns, made intriguing by its people and the atmosphere they create.

Today's skyscrapers, old colonial buildings and animated street markets are juxtaposed in bizarre incongruity, and its hot and dusty streets are brought to life by the locals.

The traditional medina quarter is home to the Grande Mosquée, and its towering minaret. The Musée Théodore Monod displays cultural artefacts from Dakar’s colonial past. The city’s vibrant nightlife is inspired by the local mbalax music, and for further relaxation, there are some excellent Atlantic beaches, while nearby N'Gor offers wonderful snorkelling.

Sophisticated Santa Cruz - Tenerife's capital - is built around boulevards and wide avenues that link elegant squares and parks.

Well-preserved buildings feature in the old town, including the colonial Church of the Immaculate Conception and the 18th century Palacio de Carta, which has impressive Baroque and neoclassical features. Recently redesigned by the architects Herzog & de Meuron, the city’s largest square, Plaza de España, is a pleasant spot to lose a few hours. Lively beaches such as Playa de Las Americas are within easy reach of Santa Cruz too. 

Away from the capital, many of Tenerife's highlights await on tours, including the exotic Botanical Gardens or the mystical lava stone Pyramids of Guimar. Exploring the volcanic El Teide National Park to marvel at majestic Mount Teide, or even climb Spain's highest peak, is an unmissable experience. 

Funchal, the capital of Portugal's Madeiran archipelago, has a timeless old-world charm. Enhanced by a subtropical climate that fills this 'floating garden' with the year-round colours and perfumes of flowers and fruit, Funchal was a favourite of Sir Winston Churchill. His praise of the city has ensured British visitors always receive a warm welcome from locals.

Backed by rolling hills, the town is famous for its harbour, the 17th century São Tiago Fortress (now the Contemporary Art Museum) and world renowned Madeiran wine cellars. Funchal’s parks and gardens are a delight, and a hike through the Laurel Forest nearby is highly recommended. The ancient Funchal Cathedral mixes Gothic and Romanesque architecture, and is noted for its impressive carved wooden ceiling.